Brown fish owl, Wilpattu, Sri Lanka

he Brown Fish Owl, also known as the Indian Fish Owl, is a majestic and awe-inspiring bird of prey that can be found in the lush forests of Wilpattu, Sri Lanka. With its striking brown plumage and piercing yellow eyes, the Brown Fish Owl is a sight to behold for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts alike. The Wilpattu National Park in Sri Lanka is one of the best places to catch a glimpse of this magnificent bird in its natural habitat. This park is a haven for a diverse range of flora and fauna, and the Brown Fish Owl is just one of the many species that call it home. The park covers an area of approximately 1,317 square kilometers, making it the largest national park in Sri Lanka. The Brown Fish Owl is a nocturnal bird, and its preferred hunting ground is near water sources such as rivers, lakes, and ponds. It feeds mainly on fish, but it also preys on other aquatic creatures like crabs and frogs. Its unique talons are specially adapted to grab and hold slippery fish, making it a highly skilled hunter. The Brown Fish Owl is a monogamous bird, and it mates for life. The female owl lays two to three eggs, and both parents take turns incubating them until they hatch. The chicks are born with a fluffy white down which eventually changes into brown plumage like that of their parents. The young owls learn to fly after around six weeks, and they start hunting for themselves at around eight weeks.